The young Brisbane-based Zaza Road Quartet of cellist Mya Whatson, pianist Mai-Lien Olsson, clarinettist Nathanael Duffy and violinist Kevin Hsu
Last year the young Brisbane-based Zaza Road Quartet of violinist Kevin Hsu, cellist Mya Whatson, clarinettist Nathanael Duffy, and pianist Mai-Lien Olsson attended the Australian Festival of Chamber Music’s (AFCM) International Masterclasses Program as students, and this year they are leading the event’s Outreach Tour to Charters Towers, Ingham, Ayr and Townsville-Gurambilbarra.
“They are the perfect example of what we aim to do in both programs – to nurture young musicians, and to share music and pathways with North Queensland students through our Outreach Tour & Workshops Program,” said AFCM Pathways Program Director Lloyd van’t Hoff.
Throughout July and August 2024, Lloyd and the Zaza Road Quartet will perform at the World Theatre in Charters Towers, Tyto Amphitheatre in Ingham, the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and at James Cook University plus special performances on the AFCM Festival Garden Main Stage during the event from 26 July to 4 August.
The tour is more than performances; workshops will be held at secondary schools throughout the region, which in the past included All Souls St Gabriels School, Ayr State High School, Blackheath & Thornburgh College, Charters Towers State School, Columba Catholic College, St Patrick’s College, Cathedral School, Pimlico High School and Townsville Grammar School, where they have mentored, inspired and talked to students about careers in music.
“We are hoping that students of music, and related studies, will take part in the workshops and we encourage everyone to come and watch our performances and talk to us about our respective careers and what’s ahead, as well as how students in regional Queensland can pursue careers in music,” said Lloyd.
Kevin Hsu from Zaza Road Quartet said the AFCM International Masterclasses Program, which they experienced last year, is a fantastic experience for any aspiring chamber musician. “We had the chance to play for, and work with world-class musicians of widely differing opinions. This greatly expanded our understanding and skills and now we are going on tour to share our experiences and love of music with regional Queensland students and music fans. It’s very exciting.”
The AFCM Outreach program is an important part of the Festival’s commitment to community engagement, access and development and is made possible with the incredible support of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables (Wilmar).
Wilmar Community Relations Manager Kylie Newman said the company was proud to partner again with the AFCM to support this year’s Outreach Tour & Workshops Program.
“We are pleased to welcome Lloyd and the Zaza Road Quartet back to North Queensland to share their talents with music lovers in our regional communities,” Mrs Newman said. “A key focus of our community support program is ensuring that young people in our milling communities have access to experiences and opportunities that might otherwise be restricted to those in large cities,” she said.
“We know there is a wealth of musical talent in the regional communities of North Queensland and we hope the young people who attend the workshops are inspired to continue to pursue their music studies.”
To find out more simply visit afcm.com.au
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
Leave a Reply